Questioning the beliefs about causes of initiation, continuation and cessation for smoking behaviors in university students

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the study was to question the reasons for starting, continuing and cessation for smoking in university students studying in the field of health. Methods: Two hundred-fifty volunteer students, studying at the Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, were enrolled in the study. Socio-demographic characteristics of the students, their characteristics regarding tobacco use, and the points of view about smoking were evaluated by face-to-face interview method with the evaluation form prepared by the researchers. Opinions on smoking initiation, ongoing smoking and smoking cessation (13, 8 and 12 questions, respectively) were questioned. Results: The mean age and body mass index of the participants were 21.27 ± 2.78 years and 21.81 ± 2.63 kg/m2, respectively. Sixteen percent of the students are smokers and the duration of smoking was 2,98 ± 2,84 years. Proportionally, the most stated reason for smoking initiation in non-smokers was: “Wannabe and enthusiasm” (22.9%); in smokers were: “Catch attention” (100%) and “Prove oneself” (100%). Proportionally, the most stated reason for ongoing smoking in non-smokers was: “Hard to give up” (10.5%); in smokers was: “Due to the stress” (47.5%). Proportionally, the most stated reason for smoking cessation in both of non-smokers and smokers was: “For my health” (5.2% - 15%, respectively). Conclusion: We are of the opinion that health professionals working in psychology field should take an active role in the fight against smoking problem. Keywords: smoking initiation, ongoing smoking, smoking cessation